Category: The Nation – Nigeria

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, yesterday officially flagged off the National Measles-Rubella Vaccine Introduction Integrated Campaign in Abuja.

She said the exercise was a collective resolve to end vaccine-preventable childhood diseases and safeguard the nation’s future.

Mrs. Tinubu described the event as ‘a declaration of our collective resolve as a nation to say ‘No More’ to the diseases that steal the future of our sons and daughters’.

The First Lady said measles and rubella remain among the leading causes of blindness, disability, and child mortality.

She noted that rubella infections during pregnancy could lead to blindness, deafness, or congenital heart defects in unborn children.

Mrs. Tinubu said: ‘A vaccine in a vial does not save a child. A vaccine in a clinic does not protect a community. Protection only becomes real when that vaccine is injected into the arm of a child.’

She urged mothers to take their children for vaccination and fathers to support them.

The First Lady also appealed to traditional and religious leaders to use their clout to dispel misinformation and encourage nationwide participation.

According to her, their previous role in the success of the HPV vaccine rollout still resonates.

Mrs. Tinubu reaffirmed her personal commitment to promoting vaccine uptake and pledged to mobilise governors’ wives, spouses of local government chairmen, and women’s groups to ensure that no child was left unprotected.

The First Lady hailed the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), and development partners – WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, and the Gates Foundation – for their partnership and dedication to Nigeria’s public health goals.

‘With this vaccine, our children will be protected against two deadly diseases and enjoy a lifetime of safety and protection. These vaccines are safe, effective, and free,’ she said.

Declaring the campaign open, the First Lady said the event represented ‘a pathway to hope and a promise of progress’.

She prayed for divine blessings on Nigerian children, mothers, and the nation.

The campaign set in motion a nationwide drive expected to reach approximately 106 million children aged nine months to under 15 years in two phases.

The campaign also integrates vaccination efforts against polio and the rollout of the HPV vaccine among adolescent girls, combining resources to optimize health impact.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, described the event as a ‘historic moment for Nigeria’s health system’ and the largest integrated health campaign on the African continent or anywhere else in the world.

The campaign, the minister announced, targets over 100 million Nigerian children, covering measles, rubella, polio, malaria, HPV, routine immunisation, and neglected tropical diseases.

He said the initiative reflected the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in prioritising health as a key pillar of national development.

‘The President is healing this country, unifying it through health, and inspiring national confidence,’ Pate said.

The minister hailed the Renewed Hope Agenda for repositioning healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

He said primary health care utilisation had risen from 10 million visits per quarter in 2023 to 47 million in the second quarter of 2025, while the government planned to make 4,800 additional PHCs fully functional by the end of 2025.

He paid tribute to frontline health workers who he said ‘risk their lives to deliver vaccines and healthcare services to the last mile’.

Pate added: ‘As Her Excellency flags off this campaign today, let us join her with conviction. The children we vaccinate and the trust we build will define the health legacy of an entire generation.’

Also, Education Minister Olatunji Alausa warned that sanctions would be imposed on school administrators who shut ting vaccinators from accessing their schools.

Represented by the ministry’s Deputy Director Peter Ojonuba, the minister described the campaign as a critical investment in Nigeria’s future and educational progress.

‘It is a day to ignite hope for healthier children, stronger communities, and a bright future for our beloved Nigeria,’ he said.

On behalf of the Gates Foundation, the Deputy Director of Immunisation and Disease Control in Nigeria, Yusuf Yusufari, said the foundation remained steadfast in supporting Nigeria’s immunisation and primary healthcare drive.

‘Today, like we did two years ago, we stand united behind one goal: that no child and no woman in Nigeria-or anywhere-should be left unprotected from preventable diseases,’ Yusufari said.

The deputy director cited Nigeria’s progress in routine immunisation, which has risen from 33 per cent in 2016 to over 60 per cent currently, alongside new vaccine introductions, such as pneumococcal, rotavirus, HPV, and now measles-rubella.

He warned that over two million Nigerian children have not received a single vaccine, the second-highest figure globally.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance Senior Programme Manager for Nigeria, Tarcile Mballa, said: ‘We have witnessed immunisation coverage rise from 27 per cent in 2001 to 67 per cent in 2024, a testament to collective commitment.’

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), stressed the importance of protecting children’s health as a national priority.

Oba Ogunwusi lauded the efforts of health officials and public officers for their dedication to sensitising Nigerians about rubella and other deadly diseases.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, noted that advocacy and education, rather than enforcement, were crucial for Nigeria’s rubella vaccine campaign to succeed.

‘We defeated polio not by force but by convincing people that the vaccine is safe. We held seminars with religious leaders to educate communities and show that the vaccine is not anti-childbirth or harmful in any way,’ the Sultan said.

President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Daniel Okoh, expressed support and optimism for the initiative to protect children and strengthen public health nationwide.

Ondo State Government has expressed delight about what it described as the rapid transformation taking place across the 18 local governments.

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, said this in Akure while briefing reporters after an inspection tour of local governments.

He said councils under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration had recorded ‘phenomenal progress’ with the provision of basic amenities such as improved road networks, rural road expansion, market upgrades and empowerment programmes for farmers and youths.

He hailed the council chairmen for aligning with the governor’s Our Ease Mantra and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, citing achievements in infrastructure, health care, education and economic development.

‘We are glad that the local governments are alive to their responsibilities. Some have built markets, provided solar power, potable water, fixed bridges and graded rural roads. They have also engaged our youths in agriculture to ensure food security and create employment,’ Takuro said.

He added that the councils were collaborating with security agencies to safeguard lives and property at the grassroots, while also prioritising upgrading of primary health care facilities across the state.

According to him, ”the councils have invested in critical infrastructure, including dredging waterways, clearing drainages and grading roads, to prevent flooding.”

Takuro said council chairmen had been working with the Ministry of Environment, with a technical adviser appointed by the governor to address perennial flooding.

He said 18 local governments had jointly saved about N15 billion to fund capital projects in their domains.

He recalled that the government had partnered with anti-graft and anti-corruption agencies to train council bosses and senior officials in transparency and accountability in revenue generations in the local governments.

The highly anticipated Pan-African crime thriller 3 Cold Dishes premiered to a sold-out audience of 1,757 guests at Indigo at The O2, London.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Asurf Oluseyi and executive produced by Bose Ogulu, Damini ‘Burna Boy’ Ogulu, and Osas Ighodaro, the film captivated viewers with its gripping tale of survival, sisterhood, and revenge.

The evening opened with a lively red carpet hosted by Shank Comics and Hakeem, featuring appearances by lead actress Osas Ighodaro, whose poise set the tone for the night, alongside co-stars Fat Toure, Maud Guerard, Ruby Akubueze, Taiwo Adeyemi, Amelie Mbaye, and veteran actor Wale Ojo.

Legendary Congolese musician Awilo Longomba added star power to the event, highlighting the film’s Pan-African spirit.

Other notable attendees included Hakka Da Host, Nissi, Boma Akpore, Yvonne Jegede, KC Obiajulu, and several influencers, media figures, and industry personalities.

Following the screening, guests engaged in a post-show conversation with Burna Boy, Nissi Ogulu, Namix, Ronami Ogulu, and director Asurf Oluseyi, moderated by Dr. Suzaan McLean. The night concluded with an exclusive VIP reception.

Set across Nigeria, the Republic of Benin, and Côte d’Ivoire, 3 Cold Dishes takes audiences on a bold cinematic journey exploring the dark realities of sex trafficking and the unyielding quest for justice.

The production unites a diverse Pan-African cast and crew, reaffirming the strength and creativity of African cinema.

3 Cold Dishes opens to the public on November 7, 2025, in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Cameroon, and the UK, and on November 28 across Francophone countries and other parts of the world.

FinServe Pro, a financial services firm, When Men Inc founder Olalani Akinyode, and others have been honoured at the Nigeria Independence Ball and Awards, organised by NaijaTimesUSA in collaboration with NIBAD Inc.

The award for Financial Services Company for Immigrants was presented to Ayomide Ibrahim, Founder of FinServe Pro, during the event held in Maryland on Sunday.

Akinyode received the award for community service for the work he is doing with When Men Inc, an organization committed to raising strong, spiritually-grounded men.

In his acceptance speech, Ibrahim expressed deep appreciation to the organizers and reflected on the company’s journey.

‘When we launched FinServe Pro in 2021 in Lanham, Maryland, our goal was straightforward – to help immigrants and small business owners find their footing in a new financial landscape,’ he said. ‘We noticed people with big dreams but limited access to guidance, and we aimed to change that.’

He continued: ‘Today, standing here, I’m proud to say that what started as a small idea has grown into a thriving community – a community of families, entrepreneurs, and dreamers who are building wealth and stability, one step at a time.’

Ibrahim dedicated the award to immigrants who have shown resilience and determination. ‘This award isn’t just for us – it’s for every immigrant who refused to give up, worked hard, and trusted us with their financial journey. You are the true inspiration behind FinServe Pro.’

He also commended the organizers for recognising innovation and community impact. ‘To the organisers, NIBAD Foundation, thank you for recognising the work we do and for creating platforms that celebrate impact and innovation.’

Ibrahim concluded his speech with a message to his team and clients. ‘To our amazing team, thank you for your dedication, belief, and passion. You make FinServe Pro more than just a company – you make it a mission. We remain committed to our vision of making finance simple and smart, one immigrant at a time.’

Akinyode dedicated his award to men all over the world.

‘What we do at When Men Inc is to strengthen men. Men have emotions, too. With our prison ministry, we help get men out and help them live meaningful lives. We help men take the right decision.’

The Niger State Government has approved a new retirement age of 65 years for teachers across the state, effective from January 1, 2026.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago made the announcement during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration organized by the state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Minna.

He also disclosed that the retirement age for professors has been raised to 70 years, explaining that the decision aims to ensure that teachers’ knowledge and values are passed on to future generations.

Bago further announced the lifting of the suspension on the payment of PTA levies, noting that payments will now be supervised by the Ministry of Education to guarantee effective utilization.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to teachers’ welfare, the governor revealed that all teachers in the state would receive a wage award of ?20,000 next month. He also donated an 18-seater bus to the NUT Niger State chapter to support its activities.

The Governor then acknowledged teachers for their immense role in nation building reiterating government’s commitment towards protecting the interest of teachers.

The Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers Niger State Chapter, Comrade Adamu Mohammed Akayago in his remarks said the theme of this year’s event signifies the reality that teachers are not merely transmitters of knowledge but architects of collective future and as such the welfare, dignity and professional status of teachers must remain a top priority for all stakeholders.

The Registrar and Chief Executive Officer National Examinations Council NECO, Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi while delivering the keynote address tagged, ‘Together for teachers, together for tomorrow: The imperative for a unified national education strategy,’ described teachers as strategic national security assets and key drivers in the formation of civic responsibility.

He stressed the need for renewed commitment to add value to teachers and empower them.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has appealed to the authorities of the Republic of Benin to release Nigerian national, Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, to enable him to receive proper medical treatment and serve out his sentence in Nigeria.

Egbaji, a businessman and cleric from Cross River State, has reportedly been detained for nearly two years in a hospital in Cotonou under dehumanising conditions, with his health said to be deteriorating rapidly.

The Nigerian government expressed deep concern over his worsening condition and ongoing trial in Benin Republic.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in a statement issued through her media aide, Dr. Magnus Eze, disclosed that discussions with the Nigerian Mission in Cotonou confirmed that Pastor Egbaji’s health is steadily declining and requires urgent medical intervention.

The statement further read, ‘She stated that the Ministry had made spirited effort to rescue the troubled Egbaji in line with the citizen diplomacy thrust of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration.

‘The minister who in early August, visited Egbaji in the Cotonou hospital alongside the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, disclosed that the Ministry had requested the transfer of the Nigerian national to receive the deserved medical care and serve out his custodial term in Nigeria.

‘She explained that Nigeria was worried over the pace of the Benin authorities in addressing the situation and acceding to its request.

‘Noting the longstanding cordial relations between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, founded on shared cultural heritage, bonds of trust, mutual respect, and a spirit of brotherhood, she urged the country to consent to Nigeria’s request and accelerate the release of the detained Nigerian pastor.

‘Odumegwu-Ojukwu also disclosed that Nigeria’s position was further highlighted in a recent letter to the Republic of Benin Government.

‘It is against this backdrop of solidarity and mutual goodwill that I seek Your Excellency’s kind consideration regarding the plight of a Nigerian national, Pastor Benjamin Egbaji, who has been serving a custodial sentence in Cotonou since October 2023 for a jail term of 10 years. As Your Excellency may be aware, Pastor Egbaji has been in Benin Republic for over three decades, contributing meaningfully as an entrepreneur, pastor, and community leader.

‘Regrettably, his health has deteriorated severely while in detention. Two independent medical experts appointed by the court recently recommended that he be transferred abroad for urgent medical care, as local interventions have proved ineffective.

‘In the spirit of our longstanding friendship and in recognition of the humanitarian imperative, not being unmindful of the grievous nature of the offence he is charged with, we kindly request that Pastor Egbaji be repatriated to Nigeria to serve out the remainder of his sentence in a Nigerian Correctional Centre,’ she stated.

She reiterated that this gesture would demonstrate in practical terms the enduring spirit of fraternity and cooperation that bind Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has stepped down from his position, marking the beginning of a transition to a new administration within the electoral body.

Yakubu, who was sworn in for a second five-year term on December 9, 2020, announced his decision during a meeting with the commission’s Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) on Tuesday.

Following his exit, one of INEC’s National Commissioners, Barrister May Agbamuche-Mbu, has assumed office as Acting Chairman pending the appointment of a substantive head by the President.

Agbamuche-Mbu, a National Commissioner from the South, currently heads INEC’s Legal Services, Clearance and Complaints Committee (LSCCC).

Yakubu’s stepping down aligns with the constitutional term limit, as he had previously vacated the position at the end of his first term in November 2020 before being reappointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

In an emotional farewell speech, the outgoing chairman expressed deep gratitude to INEC staff and Resident Electoral Commissioners for their dedication, commitment, and hard work throughout his tenure.

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has issued an order restraining some factional leaders of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) from proceeding with the group’ planned election.

The alleged factional leaders of the NYCN – Ademola Gbenga, Okechukwu Nnamene, Abel Abaji, Alex Allen Akin, and Hassan Mamman – were said to have planned the said election for October 7.

Justice J. E. Obanor issued the order on October 6 while ruling on a motion by the Incorporated Trustees of the NYCN and Ambassador Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, representing the existing leadership of the group.

Justice Obanor restrained the defendants from conducting the election pending the determination of the substantive suit, marked: FCT/HC/CV/3803/2025

The judge ordered the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Department of State Services (DSS) to enforce the court’s order.

Listed as defendants in the suit are Ademola Gbenga, Okechukwu Nnamene, Abel Abaji, and Comr. Alex Allen Akin, Hassan Mamman, the IGP, and the DSS.

The plaintiffs stated, in a supporting affidavit, that the NYCN, during its National Elective Convention held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, from September 20 to 22, re-elected Ambassador Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo as President alongside other executives.

Allegedly dissatisfied with the Sukubo-led leadership, Gbenga and others purportedly formed a parallel group and planned to conduct another election in Abuja on October 7.

The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, has resigned.

He was appointed in August 2023 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Nnaji resigned following some allegations against him.

He resigned on Monday in a letter thanking the President for allowing him to serve Nigeria.

Special Adviser to President Tinubu Bayo Onanuga confirmed the development in a statement, saying the President has accepted the resignation.

According to Onanuga: ‘Nnaji said he has been a target of blackmail by political opponents.

‘President Tinubu thanked him for his service and wished him well in future endeavours.’

Senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, has assured the United Nations that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not delegitimise or suppress opposition in Nigeria.

Ibrahim gave the assurance on Tuesday while delivering his address at the ongoing Global Parliamentary Conference on Counter-Terrorism and the Prevention of Violent Extremism in Istanbul, Turkey.